"But—" said Mr. Spangler, and then broke out, with marked agitation; "I—I really don't see how I could possibly—" Yet even as he spoke he thought of Ellen's sweet eyes. "Good Heavens!" said Mr. Spangler, passionately; "what shall I do?"
But Dr. Lavendar was silent. Mr. Spangler got up and began to walk about.
"My affection and esteem," he said, almost weeping, "are unquestioned. But there are other considerations."
Dr. Lavendar said nothing.
"It is a cruel situation," said Mr. Spangler.
Dr. Lavendar looked down at his pipe.
There was a long silence. Augustus Spangler walked back and forth. Dr. Lavendar said never a word.
"A man must consider his own fitness for such a position," Mr. Spangler said, pleadingly.
"Perhaps," Dr. Lavendar observed, mildly, "Ellen's affections are not very deeply engaged? It will be better so."
"But they are!" cried Mr. Spangler. "I assure you that they are! And I—I was so happy," said the poor man; and sniffed suddenly, and tried to find the pocket in his coat-tails.